A premier, fully-funded pathway to world-class education in the Pacific is opening soon! The Government of New Zealand will launch the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme for the 2026-2027 academic year on March 1, 2026. This prestigious scholarship offers citizens of eligible partner countries a complete package to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate degrees. More than financial aid, it’s an investment in future leaders committed to their home country’s development. The application portal is open from March 1 to March 31, 2026 – prepare your documents now!
New Zealand Manaaki Scholarship 2026 – Key Details
Here’s a quick overview of this competitive government-funded opportunity:
- Scholarship Sponsor: Government of New Zealand
- Programme Name: Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships
- Study Levels: Undergraduate, Postgraduate (Master’s, PhD)
- Host Country: New Zealand
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
- Target Group: Citizens of Eligible Partner Countries
- Application Period: March 1 – March 31, 2026
About the Fully Funded Manaaki Scholarship
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is a flagship development programme designed to build knowledge and leadership across New Zealand’s partner nations. The scholarship embodies the Māori concept of “Manaaki” – meaning to support, take care of, and give hospitality – by providing a holistic educational experience.
This is a long-term investment in human development. Recipients are integrated into New Zealand’s academic and cultural life and are expected to return home after their studies to apply their new skills and knowledge, contributing to sustainable economic, social, and political development in their communities.
Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility is specific to your country. In general, you must:
- Be a citizen of an eligible partner country (typically across the Pacific, Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean).
- Be at least 18 years old at the start of the scholarship.
- Have a strong academic record that meets the entry requirements for your chosen New Zealand university and programme.
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a clear commitment to contributing to your home country’s development.
- For postgraduate applicants, relevant work experience is often a key requirement.
- Commit to returning to your home country for a minimum period (usually two years) after completing your studies.
Comprehensive Scholarship Benefits
The Manaaki Scholarship is a full-cost award that covers all major expenses:
- Full Tuition Fees: For the entire duration of your approved degree programme.
- Living Allowance: A fortnightly stipend to cover accommodation, food, and general living costs.
- Travel Costs: Return economy airfares from your home country to New Zealand.
- Establishment Allowance: A one-time payment to assist with initial set-up costs in New Zealand.
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health and travel insurance for the duration of your scholarship.
- Research & Thesis Support: For postgraduate research students, contributions towards fieldwork and thesis preparation costs.
How to Apply for the Manaaki Scholarship (Step-by-Step)
Important: The application window is only one month. Preparation before March 1 is essential for success.
- Check Eligibility & Prepare (Start Now): Confirm your country is eligible and begin gathering required documents: academic transcripts, degree certificates, an updated CV, letters of recommendation, and a draft personal statement.
- Submit Application (March 1-31, 2026):
- Access the official Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships online application system.
- Complete the eligibility questionnaire and application form.
- Upload all required documents.
- Submit your application well before the March 31 deadline.
🔥 Pro Tip: The personal statement is crucial. It must convincingly link your past academic/professional experience, your chosen field of study in New Zealand, and your concrete vision for contributing to development in your home country. Demonstrate clear leadership and purpose.
Application Deadline
The application period is strict and brief:
📅 March 1 to March 31, 2026.
Applications must be submitted by midday (New Zealand time) on March 31. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Official Website
For the official list of eligible countries, detailed guidelines, and the application portal (live on March 1), visit:
👉 CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE OFFICIAL MANAAKI NEW ZEALAND SCHOLARSHIPS WEBSITE
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Who can apply for the Manaaki Scholarship?
A: Citizens of eligible partner countries, primarily in the Pacific, Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. You must check the official website for your country’s specific status and criteria.
Q2: Can I bring my family with me to New Zealand?
A: The scholarship provides limited support for eligible dependents (spouse and children), which may include travel, insurance, and a small allowance. However, you are primarily responsible for their living costs, which can be substantial.
Q3: Is work experience required?
A: For most postgraduate programmes, relevant professional work experience is a key selection criterion and significantly strengthens your application. Requirements vary by country and study level.
Q4: How competitive is the selection process?
A: The scholarship is highly competitive. Selection is based on academic merit, leadership potential, relevant experience, the quality of your application, and your commitment to contributing to development.
Q5: What is the biggest mistake applicants make?
A: Waiting for the portal to open before starting preparation. The one-month window is for finalizing and submitting an already polished application, not for gathering documents and writing essays from scratch.
